Are you ready to whip up a warm, comforting dish that everyone will love? This savory slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe is simple, tasty, and perfect for busy days. I’ll guide you through each step, from gathering fresh ingredients to achieving fluffy dumplings. With a few easy tips, you’ll create a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Get ready to impress your family with this classic favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings
To make this tasty dish, you will need:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
These key ingredients provide a rich base and flavor for your meal. The chicken adds protein, while the broth keeps everything moist. Carrots and celery bring in a nice crunch, and onion and garlic add depth.
Spices and Seasonings
You will also need some simple spices to enhance the taste:
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon salt
These spices work together to create a comforting aroma. Thyme and rosemary are classic herbs that pair well with chicken. Black pepper adds a gentle heat, and salt brings out all the natural flavors.
Optional Add-Ins
Feel free to customize your dish with some fun extras:
– Fresh herbs like parsley or dill
– Chopped mushrooms for an earthy taste
– Corn for a sweet pop
These add-ins can change the dish’s flavor and texture. Fresh herbs add brightness, while mushrooms bring umami. Corn adds sweetness and color, making your meal even more appealing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by placing the four chicken breasts in the slow cooker. This is the base of our dish. Next, add four cups of low-sodium chicken broth. This broth adds great flavor. Now, slice the two medium carrots and dice the two stalks of celery. Add these to the pot. Chop one small onion and mince two cloves of garlic. Toss them in as well. For herbs, sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried thyme and one teaspoon of dried rosemary. Lastly, add one teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything gently to mix the flavors.
Cooking in the Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for six hours. You can also cook it on high for three hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender at this point. After cooking, take the chicken breasts out. Use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces. Once shredded, return the chicken to the slow cooker. Now, stir in one cup of frozen peas and one can of cream of chicken soup. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Making the Dumplings
In a separate bowl, combine one cup of all-purpose flour, one tablespoon of baking powder, and half a teaspoon of salt. This is the base for our dumplings. Next, pour in three-quarters of a cup of milk and three tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Now, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter on top of the chicken mixture in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. The dumplings should be fluffy and cooked through when they are done. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavors
To make your chicken and dumplings pop with flavor, use fresh herbs. Dried thyme and rosemary work well, but fresh herbs add a bright taste. You can also add a splash of lemon juice at the end for zest. Sautéing the onions, garlic, and veggies before adding them to the slow cooker brings out their sweetness. This step is simple but makes a big difference.
Ensuring Fluffy Dumplings
For fluffy dumplings, don’t overmix the batter. Mix just until combined; lumps are okay. This keeps the dumplings light and airy. When you drop the batter on top of the chicken, make sure to leave space between each spoonful. This allows them to expand while cooking. Cooking them on high heat at the end is key. It helps them rise and become fluffy.
Adjusting Cooking Times
Cooking times can change based on your slow cooker. If you cook on low, expect about six hours. For high, three hours works well. Always check the chicken for doneness. It should shred easily with forks. If you want dumplings sooner, start them right after shredding the chicken. They only need about 30 minutes on high. This way, you’ll have a warm meal faster.
Variations
Substituting Protein
You can easily change the protein in this dish. Instead of chicken, try turkey or pork. Both meats work well with the flavors. If you want a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or tofu. These choices add a nice twist to the recipe. Just remember to adjust cooking times if needed.
Different Vegetable Options
Feel free to mix up the veggies in your chicken and dumplings. You can add green beans or corn for a pop of color. Sweet potatoes also make a great addition. They bring a slight sweetness that balances nicely with the savory broth. You can even add spinach or kale for extra nutrition. Just chop them small, so they cook well.
Alternative Dumpling Recipes
If you want a different dumpling, try using biscuit dough instead. Store-bought biscuits work well and save time. Just drop them on top of the chicken mix like you would with homemade dough. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free baking mix. Adjust the liquid to get the right dough consistency. These options keep the dish fun and fresh!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
After you finish your chicken and dumplings, let them cool down. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to enjoy them again, just take them out.
Freezing Leftovers
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure they are cool first. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. This will keep them safe for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your chicken and dumplings, you have a few options. You can use the microwave for quick heating. Just place a bowl in and heat for a few minutes. Stir halfway through. If you want to reheat on the stove, pour them in a pot. Heat over medium until warm. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs
Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings without cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can make this dish without cream of chicken soup. You can use a homemade white sauce. Just combine butter, flour, and milk. This will give you a creamy texture without the canned soup. You can also use sour cream for a tangy twist.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
You can tell the chicken is done when it reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred. If it falls apart with a fork, it’s perfect!
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken breasts work great! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time. The slow cooker will safely cook them through. Always ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
This recipe for Chicken and Dumplings gives you simple steps and tasty ideas. You learned about key ingredients, spices, and optional add-ins.
Follow my tips for flavors and fluffy dumplings. Don’t forget to explore fun variations using different proteins or veggies. Lastly, check storage info to keep leftovers fresh.
Enjoy this comforting meal that you can easily adapt and share!
